China Invitational Vert Contest Results & Photos

Last year’s China Invitational witnessed skate competitions and a BMX vert demo, but this year BMX Vert was added to the event as a competition, and eight of the best big ramp riders in the world were on hand at the Beijing University of Technology Gymnasium to throw down.

Only seven riders were originally invited (based off of last year’s Dew Tour standings), but when Jamie Bestwick was having trouble with his Chinese visa, Kevin Robinson (who had a valid visa) was called in to fill the spot. Jamie’s visa went through at the last minute, so with Kevin already on the list the number was set at eight.

Most riders agreed that the vert ramp was one of the best ramps they’ve ridden and it showed. Everyone was airing high and pulling big tricks. One portion seemed a bit under vert as it was throwing guys off a bit, and it probably led to a few crashes and un-pulled tricks in the process. Regardless, the riding was awesome and the heated comp’s winner wasn’t decided until the very last run.

I’m sure Jamie was glad his visa came through after he stole the win from Steve McCann. After going for broke and nailing a banger first run that included a triple tailwhip, Stevie held the top spot until Jamie’s second and final run. Knowing he had to beat a 91.83, Jamie unloaded with huge airs and back-to-back insanity. Jamie’s runs look so effortless and dialed despite the difficulty of his tricks. Floating alley-oops and regular airs, nosebleed height, and style like no other, Jamie put on a bloody good show for the Beijing crowd.

The contest will air on NBC on Sunday, June 14. Check out the gallery here for some pics and turn on the tube next month to see the footage.

Look below for photo gallery and trick lists for each rider’s runs.

Results

1. Jamie Bestwick, 94.17

2. Steve McCann, 91.83

3. Chad Kagy, 90.00

4. Simon Tabron, 89.33

5. Jimmy Walker, 89.17

6. Dennis McCoy, 88.00

7. Kevin Robinson, 87.33

8. Zack Warden, 86.00

Trick by trick, here’s what went down.

(There may be a few airs missing and there’s definitely a few opposites that aren’t labeled)